Rural
Situated in Gudalur, Manvayal wetland is situated at an elevation 965m above sea level and lies adjacent to the Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary. The land here is totally owned by the Chettis with the Panniyas as the labourers. The Panniyas have encroached on the adjacent mudumulai land .The main crops in the wetland are paddy, bitter gourd, beans and bananas. The wetland definitely appeared drier than Padanthorai and Nelliyalam. Water from the wells in the field/wetland was used for drinking purposes and the panniers used the stream passing through the field for washing clothes and utensils as well.
Biological and Botanical Narrative
The wetland has been converted into an agricultural field. Paddy, Bitter gourd, Beans and Banana was being cultivated in the field. A small stream runs on one side of the field. The earthen bunds were covered by Buffalo grass, Polygonum, Dicrocephala chrysanthemifolia. One side of the wetland was surrounded by the Mudumalai forest, represented by Teak, Rosewood and Bamboo spp. The other side adjacent to the village was represented by Erythrina, Tapioca, Coffee, Tea and wild pepper. Birds like Kite, Sunbird, golden back woodpecker, barbet and drongo were collecting nectar from the Erythrina bloom. Butterflies were seen flying over the field. Tadpoles were found swimming in the well which was used for drinking purpose. Crab holes were observed on the earthen bund in the field. Cattle-grazing was also present
